Media Relations
Press Release:
MEDIA CONTACT: Polly Burks
561-297-2595, pburks@fau.edu
FAU and Local Doctors Bring Music to Patients
BOCA RATON , FL (June 13, 2006) – A program recently initiated by two local doctors uses the power of music for healing. The “Doctors Andrew and Bradford Ress Healing by Music Project” supports musical groups from Florida Atlantic University in programs at local hospitals.
The project’s first event was held recently at the Pinecrest Rehabilitation Hospital at the Delray Medical Center. FAU’s Woodwind Trio performed for stroke patients during an afternoon gathering. The next event will be held Wednesday, June 14 at 1 p.m. for young patients at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital at St. Mary’s Medical Center in West Palm Beach.
“Music’s role in healing is the subject of much research and discussion,” said Heather Coltman, chair of FAU’s department of music. “FAU’s young musicians who participate in this wonderful program feel strongly about sharing their love of music, and realize the joy and peace that listening to great music can bring. We are so pleased to be part of his valuable and meaningful initiative.”
Doctors (and brothers) Andrew and Bradford, both Boca Raton residents, got the idea of bringing music into healthcare settings when their father Lewis arranged for live music for their mother after knee surgery.
“The music helped her recovery and made her forget she was hospitalized,” said Dr. Andrew Ress, a plastic surgeon practicing in Boca Raton.
Kristin Hurley, a graduate student at FAU, is organizing the student programs. She has a special dedication to the project as she spent several months at the Delray Beach Medical Center recovering from injuries sustained in a car accident.
For information on contributing to the Healing by Music Project, contact Laurie Carney at 561-297-3606.
- FAU -
